ISSUE: Vacuum isn’t picking up dirt and particles effectively.

Possible Fix #1

Your collection filter bag may be full, and this can reduce air flow which can, in turn, cause the motor to overheat. Overheated motors cause other cumulative problems. Open the front lid/housing to see if your collection bag is full, and if it appears more than three-quarters full, try replacing the collection bag with a brand new one. More than likely, the unit will resume its normal cleaning effectiveness.

(Cha-ching monitor: $2 – $3 per bag)

Possible Fix #2

As a rule of thumb, you should change the HEPA filter on your vacuum every 6 months, unless it appears dirty or clogged upon inspection. In the Midwest, you can use Day Light Saving time as a reminder. Change your fire alarm batteries, then change your HEPA cartridges. If your vacuum is not performing well, this can be a proactive, preventive measure to ensure best performance. A clogged HEPA filter cartridge can reduce vacuum performance, and may even cause the filter to warp or buckle such that dirt goes right around.

(Cha-ching monitor: $25 twice a year for vacuums used frequently. Note: Some filters are higher.)

Possible Fix #3

Check all hoses for a clog. What often happens is the hose and wand assembly are removed and checked/cleared, but the bottom hose that connects with the brush head is not checked. This channel can often be the location of the clog. The bottom hose must be removed from the back housing and straightened out. If you cannot see the brush roller through the hose, it is clogged. In most cases, you will find a paper clip or some object that has created the blockage. Once all hoses are cleared, the unit may return to its normal service.

(Cha-ching monitor: $0)

Possible Fix #4

Check your beater brush. It is common for hair and string to get wrapped around it, which can impact the vacuum’s ability to clean. Flip the vacuum over to inspect the beater brush, and if needed, use a pair of scissors or sharp object to cut out all of the hair and string that is tangled around the bar. This will help to improve cleaning productivity.

(Cha-ching monitor: $0)

Possible Fix #5

Check the carpet height setting. If you have recently vacuumed plush, high-pile carpeting, you will need to lower the vacuum height for shorter commercial-grade carpeting to ensure that you vacuum at maximum capacity. If too much space is allowed between the vacuum and the carpet, suction is dramatically reduced, and results as well.

(Cha-ching monitor: $0)

Possible Fix #6

See if the system is airtight. Upright vacuums have multiple locations where hoses attach to the body or to the wand or to other hoses. The wand has several attachment options on most machines. Often, the hose option requires attachment to the vacuum line in a way that circumvents the floor opening on the upright. A leak at any of these attachment points, or trying to floor vacuum when the hose is attached, may result in reduced suction.